When Mars Hill Coffeehouse recently replaced some of the furniture at its downtown Hollister location, community members expressed concern that the much-loved coffee shop might be shutting its doors. Though the moving trucks and hauling of furniture may have worried local residents, rest assured Mars Hill is just getting ready for more business and leaving a positive mark on its customers.
“On a Wednesday morning in January, Mars Hill did some early spring cleaning in the form of hauling away old couches and furniture that had served its purpose there for the past nine years,” said operations team member Scott Kindred. “We are entering our 10th year in ministry there and are refreshing the place with furniture replacements, paint touch-ups and other improvements.”
Mars Hill, which opened its doors in May 2009, is associated with inChrist Church of Hollister.
“God blessed a group of people to have the vision of Mars Hill 10 years ago,” said Kindred.
While the furniture may be updated, the community feel and convenience of the coffee shop’s location at San Benito and Sixth streets has made it part of the fabric of downtown Hollister. With art by local artists on the walls, a small conference room available for public use, and a large open floor plan, locals frequent Mars Hill to have meetings, enjoy the company of friends and family, and/or study for an upcoming exam.
“Mars Hill is a perfect place for any student like me,” said San Benito High School senior Sarah Meza. “I can go to study, hold meetings, or tutor my students. It has a nice small coffee shop vibe and the staff is always really nice and welcoming.”
Johana Manzo, also a San Benito High School senior, goes to Mars Hill about three times a week to study, hang out with friends, and tutor seventh-grade students in literature and math.
“It is a very comfortable and convenient place,” Manzo said, adding that it is “quieter than Starbucks.”
Chace Miguel, who worked at Mars Hill for five years, said she was drawn to Mars Hill for the warm environment and supportive staff.
“I wanted to work at Mars Hill because my sister worked there and loved it,” Miguel said. “The staff truly cares about their customers and the managers are one-of-a-kind.”
After receiving a spot on the CSU-East Bay Women’s Soccer team for her junior year of college, Miguel had to leave Mars Hill. Though she no longer serves customers or makes drinks, she still thinks fondly of a place she considers her other home.
“I miss my coworkers so much,” Miguel said. “They are my second family. They always support me with any decision I make and I love coming home from college to visit them all.”
For Kindred, part of what makes Mars Hill so special to so many people is the coffee shop’s desire to be a place that welcomes all people.
“It’s become the place where everyone in Hollister goes,” he said. “Whether it’s moms with kids in the afternoons, civic groups, politicians, or bible study groups. It’s also a safe place for people in the margins.”
BenitoLink, like many nonprofits, clubs and organizations has benefited by Mars Hill’s private conference room for its weekly editorial meetings. The room is offered to the community with a simple reservation system handled at the coffee bar.
Mars Hill has always provided a space for local groups to use for events, including Arti-Culture paint parties, Youth Alliance open mic nights, as well as performances by ComedySportz from San Benito High School. Kindred said the coffeehouse plans to host a National Day of Prayer in May.
“Mars Hill is about relationships,” he said. “Building relationships with people and organizations who recognize Mars Hill for its intent and are interested in supporting its mission.”
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